Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, some 415 million in fact, but fortunately it’s a condition where travelling and seeing what the globe has to offer, is still very much a possibility. Whilst you do need to take care to look after yourself when abroad, there’s no reason you can’t have just as much fun as someone with diabetes. Why is this topic brought to attention here? Because getting down with diabetes is not as difficult as it may seem and it’s better to know how to deal with this condition in advance.
And if you’re planning a trip abroad in the near future, take a look at these tips for travelling without the stress diabetes can bring.
Plan your meals
This is important when you’re home, but abroad it’s vital you have a plan in place for when and what you’re going to eat. It’s the number one tip from Diabetes Forecast, especially when you’re flying – as food tends to be unhealthy, and can even run out. You can contact the airline in advance and ask them to provide you a special meal – or simply bring along your own supplies. The latter is probably easier.
Bring a doctor’s note
If you have diabetes, the chances are you’ll need medication to help keep the condition in check – particularly insulin. However, some customs can be a little tricky to negotiate, so Insurancewith recommend you have a doctor’s note ready and waiting for when you pass through security.
Take extra
The last thing you need is to rock up on holiday and find you don’t have enough supplies or medication. What happens if your flight is delayed? Don’t make this silly mistake and take double the amount you need. It might be a tight squeeze in your luggage, but you’ll regret it if it’s needed.
Have your European Health Insurance Card
If you’re from Europe and travelling within the EU, you should be able to get yourself a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Diabetes is covered as one of the conditions so if you’re ill on your travels, you won’t have to worry about extortionate expenses adding up.
Get advice from the doctor
Doctors are there to provide help and advice, so you might as well take it. When travelling by plane you’ll experience jet lag – so find out how you can adjust your insulin rates to acclimatise to the new time zone. Sometimes it’s as easy as adjusting by one hour each day – but we’d suggest getting professional advice.
Keep an eye on your sugar levels
For those who’ve had diabetes for some time now, you’ll know just how important it is to keep an eye on your sugar levels. When you’re travelling, this is even more vital. Any vigorous activity can lead to high sugar levels, whilst periods of waiting around and sitting can bring down your levels.
And there you have it – 6 tips for better enjoying your holidays when you’re travelling the world. Diabetes isn’t a barrier. With the right precautions and safety tips, you’ll have a cracking time without any problems.
This is a contributed post.
